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UHB125X

Blow-drying and straightening systems

Unit reference number: A/507/5329

Level: 3

Guided Learning (GL) hours: 60

Overview

This unit is about providing blow-drying and straightening system services for clients to produce a completed look on different hair lengths, textures and styles. Learners will use a range of products, tools, electrical equipment and techniques to provide the chemical temporary straightening system service and blow-dry service. Learners will develop the knowledge and skills to prepare for and provide a professional and commercial finished service to the hair.

Learners will also develop an understanding of possible contra-indications, how to work safely and hygienically, client lifestyle and factors which affect and influence the blow-drying and straightening system service

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, learners will: LO1 Know the salon requirements for blow-drying and straightening services

LO2 Understand the factors which influence blow-drying and straightening services

LO3 Know the products, tools and equipment required for blow-drying and straightening services

LO4 Be able to prepare for blow-drying and straightening services

LO5 Be able to provide blow-drying and straightening services

Version 8

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Assessment requirements

Learners must produce a portfolio of evidence which includes: 1. Service portfolio 2. Summative practical assessment

1. Service portfolio

Learners must produce a blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening system service portfolio. At a minimum the service portfolio for this unit must include, client consultation and treatment records covering all of the following:

Carried out a minimum of 1 finished style

Used products and techniques suitable for blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening systems service

- Use chemical temporary straightening system shampoo

- Use chemical temporary straightening system treatment product

- Use chemical temporary straightening system masque

- Use chemical temporary straightening system serum

Used all tools and equipment - Hand held dryer

- Large round brush, flat brush or Denmam

- Combs

- Sectioning clips or clamps

- Tint brush and bowl as required

Considered all factors and hair characteristics to include - Head and face shape

- Influencing factors, e.g. growth patterns

- Client requirements

- Lifestyle

Produced a minimum of 1 creative finish - Chemical temporary straightening service

Given all types of advice - Initial consultation to agree service

- Aftercare

- How to maintain the look

- Post service maintenance

- Additional products and services Evidence from the one summative practical assessment must also be presented in the service portfolio. The service portfolio is a requirement which must be completed prior to learners undertaking the one summative practical assessment.

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2. Summative practical assessment

Learners must carry out a complete blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service on one client which will be observed and marked by centre assessors. Learners must achieve all assessment criteria in order to pass and achieve the unit. The practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment on a real client. At a minimum the practical assessment for this unit must cover:

Service – chemical temporary straightening service and blow dry of the hair - One client, using creative techniques and effects performed within a

commercial time appropriate to client’s hair type to produce a salon professional finish

Products, tools and equipment – appropriate chemical temporary straightening products, combs, brushes, sectioning clips/clamps, hand held hair drying equipment, tint brush and bowl as required, and straightening electrical equipment, check all equipment records before use and update as appropriate

Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to the practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and recorded.

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Unit content

LO1 Know the salon requirements for blow-drying and straightening services

Explain the importance of good personal presentation: Personal presentation is important in creating an overall good impression and promotes client satisfaction, repeat/new business and reputation for the stylist/salon. Learners must:

Have a positive image and attitude

Ensure salon uniform requirements are adhered to. Each salon will have different requirements and expect learners to dress appropriately. As a general rule closed-in low heel shoes should be worn. Where tights/stocking/socks are worn, these should be clean and free from ladders or holes. Smart non-restrictive clothes for ease of movement with sleeves or jewellery that do not affect client whilst service is provided. Other examples may include a set uniform or tee-shirt with or without salon logo

Be presentable and have good personal hygiene including clean clothes, clean teeth and fresh breath

Ensure they avoid a strong smell of tobacco or heavy perfume or aftershave

Ensure they present good posture throughout the service with weight evenly balanced State the salon procedures to set up the work area:

A clean and hygienic working area will help create an overall good impression to the client’s and prevent cross-infection. Learners will have knowledge of health and safety

Explain how to recognise relevant hazards and risks for the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service:

Within a salon safety is of paramount importance and learners must know how to recognise potential harm or injury that may occur

- Hazards – anything that has the potential to cause harm, e.g. hairdryer flex left plugged in and trailing round client’s chair

- Risks – a chance, high or low, that harm caused by the hazard will occur, e.g. someone may trip over trailing hair dryer lead

Learners must work safely throughout the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service ensuring maintenance of electrical equipment is monitored. Learners must make visual checks on electrical items for safe use

Learners must dispose of waste appropriately to minimise risk of cross-infection and ensure it does not pose a risk to the environment

Explain the importance of accurate record keeping: Record and maintenance cards/electronic files are an effective resource within a salon and provide accurate information regarding client services, history of the client, the products used and any tests carried out with dates. Learners must understand the importance of record keeping, ensuring future services can be tracked. Maintenance of electrical equipment record cards/files will verify equipment testing, faults and general repairs for specific items. Learners must ensure:

The client record cards are maintained and show current information

Update electrical records if equipment becomes faulty during blow-drying service

Latest equipment testing date records are checked

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LO2 Understand the factors which influence the blow-drying and straightening services

Describe different hair classifications:

Hair classifications table

1a Fine/thin 1b Medium 1c Coarse

Type 1: Straight hair

Straight Straight with volume Straight difficult hair

2a Fine/thin 2b Medium 2c Coarse

Type 2: Wavy hair

‘S’ pattern Frizzy ‘S’ pattern Very frizzy ‘S’ pattern

3a Fine/thin 3b Medium 3c Coarse

Type 3: Curly hair

Soft curl Loose curl Tight curl

4a Fine/thin 4b Medium 4c Coarse

Type 4: Very curly hair

Tight coiled curl pattern

‘Z’ pattern and spring curl

Tight ‘Z’ pattern

Client with a hair classification of 3a – soft curl has natural movement in the hair and will influence product choice, and size(s) of brush(es) used in blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening depends on length of hair

Describe how hair classifications and characteristics affect blow drying and temporary chemical straightening services:

Density – This is defined as the numbers of hairs on the scalp – this will affect the choice of tools and products used and the time of the service, e.g. avoid products that increase volume of the hair on thicker, dense coarse hair. Heat temperature to be adjusted on a client by client basis when blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening, e.g. a client with long fine wavy hair will take a shorter time for the service than client with long, thick curly hair

Texture – this is defined as the circumference of an individual strand of hair. Hair can be fine, medium or coarse. Coarse hair has the largest circumference, and fine hair the smallest. In blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening, the texture of the hair may affect the service time

Porosity – this relates to the condition of the cuticle. Porosity levels are caused by both chemical and physical damage. Learners must control heat direction and correct use of tools in hair-drying and chemical temporary straightening to minimise damage to the hair. Cuticles which are raised and feel rough are known as porous and will absorb water and products more easily and unevenly when blow-drying and chemically temporary straightening. Suitable treatment products and advice may be required if hair is porous

Hygroscopic – hair has the ability to absorb moisture into the cortex and this is called hygroscopic. The properties are changed when it has been shampooed or become wet by breaking down weaker hydrogen bonds and in its natural state hair is known as alpha keratin. This allows the hair to be stretched using chemicals, heat and brushes in blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening. Once hair is stretched and dried into a new shape it becomes known as beta keratin state. When blow-drying and chemically temporarily straightening the hair, it is important that the hair is thoroughly dried using brushes to stretch the hair into its new form

Growth patterns – this relates to the direction the hair grows from the scalp and may influence the desired finish. Selection of appropriate tools and products may help overcome a difficult growth pattern e.g. a client with a ‘cow’s-lick’ may achieve a fringe temporarily with correct products, tools, equipment and techniques

Head and face shape and size – this relates to the overall shape and size of a client’s head and includes any specific features. When blow-drying and straightening, it is important to ensure that the client has a style they can manage which suits their overall

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appearance, e.g. a client with a long face may require a fringe or a client with a round face may be best suited to a longer straightened style

Lifestyle – this is about the client’s every day activities and working patterns e.g. a client who is required to tie her hair back every day for work may not be suitable as hair should not be tied back for up to four days following the blow-dry and chemical temporary straightening service. A client who swims daily should be advised to avoid swimming for four days after the service

Hair length – this will affect the general condition of the hair. If the hair is long, the ends will have been shampooed many times and the condition may be affected by physical or chemical processes. Correct chemical temporary straightening products must be used to reflect the client’s hair condition

Services prior to blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service– a colouring service should take place 24 – 48 hours before the chemical temporary straightening service or planned two weeks after the chemical temporary straightening service. Only shampoos intended to prepare the hair prior to the chemical temporary straightening service should be used. A cut should take place after the service to remove any split ends

Temperature and humidity of the salon, client and general external weather conditions – these will be influencing factors when delivering a blow-drying and chemically temporary straightening service, both the inside and outside temperatures. A salon that has poor ventilation may produce a damp and humid atmosphere, affecting service, e.g. if outside weather conditions are very hot and sunny, perspiration from the client on the scalp may present dampness at the roots, and therefore correct temperature control of the hair dryer and straighteners is important. Temperature control within the salon must be adjusted with either additional heating, ventilation or assisted fanning devices

Describe factors that can prevent or restrict the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service: A contra-indication to the hair and scalp can prevent or alter the service, products or techniques used in blow-drying and chemically temporary straightening the hair, e.g. a client with an allergy to perfumes or oils may not be suitable for some product use. Learners must identify contra-indications to the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service:

Scalp sensitivity – an inflamed, sore and red scalp may prevent direct heat being placed on scalp and care should be taken when using combs or brushes

Hair and skin disorders and diseases - Contagious – can be passed person to person may prevent service

Viral – warts, herpes

Fungal – ringworm

Animal parasites – head lice, scabies

- Non-contagious – may prevent service due to severity of condition Sebaceous cyst – lump on top or under scalp/head

Psoriasis – dry silvery scales of skin

Contact dermatitis – dry, red, sore, itchy may possibly be weeping

Recent scar/tissue injury, may be tender when using chemicals, combs, brushes or heat

Hair loss, possible after hair extension removal, medication, stress or trauma (alopecia), use products, tools and equipment carefully to adapt style to cover hair loss

Hair defects – Trichorrhexis Nodosa, rough swollen broken shaft, require extreme care when using chemicals, combing or brushing hair and correct product use is important

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State the importance of effective questioning when consulting with the client:

An important factor of the blow-drying and straightening service is to understand the client requirements. Learners must understand the importance of questioning the client prior to, during and after services regarding their personal needs. Learners will use questioning to communicate with the client in a way that meets the client’s individual needs. This may include the use of visual aids, e.g. album of pictures, style book or photos, to agree outcome.

The client will feel valued if references are made regarding personal comfort and heat settings of equipment

Offering refreshments (if available) will add to the service and general ambience to personalise the service

A happy client rebooks for future service and recommends and promotes services

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LO3 Know the products, tools and equipment required for blow-drying and straightening services

State the products, tools and equipment required for blow-drying and temporary chemical straightening service:

Products - Shampoo – the shampoo used in the chemical temporary straightening

service must be the appropriate shampoo that prepares the hair for the service. This is a formulated anti-residue shampoo

- Chemical temporary straightening system product – this must be chosen to meet the client’s specific hair type following consultation. The product is a solution or cream that should be applied using a brush and bowl/wide tooth comb as appropriate to the consistency of the product

- Serum – the serum used after the hair has been rinsed should be the smoothing serum to seal the cuticle prior to the final blow dry. No other products should be used for four days after the service following manufacturer’s guidelines

Tools - Round brushes – large diameter brush suitable for longer hair

- Flat brushes – various sizes e.g. paddle or Denman. Produces smooth straight finish

- Combs Wide tooth comb for detangling and/or product application

Tail comb may be used to section hair and to create a barrier to the scalp when straightening equipment is applied to hair

- Sectioning clips/clamps – used to section and manage the hair during the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service

Equipment - Hand dryer – removes moisture from the hair and will have different airflow

and temperature settings. High temperatures should not be used on fine, dry or fragile hair conditions

- Nozzle – attachment for hand dryer and condenses air flow specifically to a chosen area. Care should be used to ensure scalp burn is avoided

- Straightening irons – smoothes and flattens cuticle and sets the chemical temporary straightening product in the hair. Protect with comb between scalp and irons

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LO4 Be able to prepare for blow drying and straightening services

Prepare and check the area, products, tools and equipment prior to the service Preparation is an important feature of the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service, not least because it enables learners to work safely and methodically. Learners will ensure that the cleanliness and health and safety standards within the salon are maintained to enhance the client’s overall satisfaction with the service.

Prepare working area. - Ensure there is adequate room around the work area to allow safe use of all

equipment

- Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the work area to reduce the risk to self and other of inhaling the product fumes/vapour

- Ensure all work areas are free from hair, including basin, chair, trolley, work station/dressing unit and floor

- Move chairs to remove and wipe away any dropped products, check feet of chairs for cleanliness and wipe seat and back of chair or apply fresh cover

- Ensure trolleys are systematically cleaned between clients, removing unwanted items and replacing with fresh cleaned/sterilised items

- Ensure towels, capes and client outer gowns are clean and freshly laundered for service and removed after use

Prepare products - Learners must ensure a range of products are available. Products should be

displayed either at dressing/work area, on a separate display trolley or by a visual chart. Learners must ensure that the client has full range of available product choice. There must be sufficient products available, in good condition, clean and appropriate for all possible hair types

Prepare tools and equipment - Learners must ensure tools are placed in logical order of use, on a clean

towel or disposable paper towel to prevent cross-infection

- Hand-dryer will be ready to use

- Straightening irons will be ready for use but not switched on, they will be placed on a heatproof mat or folded towel and the plates of the straightening iron will be clean and free from product build-up. Straightening irons heat up quickly; learners must know the optimum time to turn equipment on to prevent waste of electricity, hazard or risk

Preparation of learners - Learners will present themselves professionally displaying:

Readiness for the service

A good attitude

Personality/persona fitting for the salon

Good communication and listening skills

Maintain good posture throughout blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service

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Prepare the client for services:

Learners will ensure that formulated anti-residue shampoo has been used to prepare the client’s hair. Learners must ensure there are no excess products remaining in the hair to inhibit the chemical temporary straightening service, the hair is in alpha keratin state and protective garments remain dry and intact

Prepare client, learners must - Remove obstructive jewellery or items that would inhibit the chemical

temporary straightening service, e.g. earrings or necklace - Adjust height of client’s chair so that learners do not have to bend

excessively, but ensure it is comfortable for client, where necessary a foot stand to be positioned for client comfort

- Ensure the client maintains the correct posture to avoid hazard or risk

- Confirm that the client is comfortable at start of service

Explain and agree service outcome with the client:

Conduct a visual and manual check of the hair and scalp

Identify and influencing factors and discuss these with client

Agree choice of products with the client

Agree choice of tools and equipment with the client

Agree service outcome with the client

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LO5 Be able to provide blow-drying and straightening services

Select products, tools and equipment to blow-dry and temporarily chemically straighten hair: Learners must demonstrate they have identified and used the most suitable items to create the finish.

Application of products, tools and equipment will be dependent on - Hair classification

- Hair characteristics/growth pattern

- Length

- Condition

- Density

- Texture

- Porosity

- Influencing factors

Products – learners will choose the most appropriate products to create the finish. Products chosen will aid the techniques used when blow-drying and chemically temporarily straightening. Learners must demonstrate correct choice to enhance the finish

Tools – in selection of tools, learners must use the most appropriate items to create a finish and be able to manipulate the hair whilst using electrical equipment

- Learners will choose sectioning clips or clamps to divide hair - where appropriate, depending upon length and style - into manageable areas when handling the hair to ensure hair is chemically temporarily straightened and blow-dried at the end of the service. Tools must not damage or become stuck in the hair

Equipment – learners will use a hand-dryer and straighteners to create a finish. Learners must

- Demonstrate that they can control a constant airflow that does not cause discomfort to the client or damage to the hair

- Demonstrate that they can work in an safe and effective manner with straighteners without causing discomfort to the client or damage to the hair

- Demonstrate they have produced a finished result that has been enhanced by the use of electrical items

- Use a hand-dryer to dry and style the hair

Use safe and hygienic working methods throughout the service:

Demonstrate they have clean products, tools and equipment for the service

Display safe usage of all products both in application and storage

Ensure the use of products does not cause harm or present a risk

Use all electrical equipment safely

Remain in control of the equipment

Demonstrate safe storage as some products may lose their ability to work or may present a risk or hazard

Display good processes of application of products, e.g. carefully applying chemical temporary straightening products to avoid damaging the client’s skin, ears or eyes

Carry out a service without causing danger or damage to self, client or work areas intentionally or by accident, e.g. avoid placing hot straighteners on unprotected work surface

Avoid inhalation of products – self, client and others during the application

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Identify potential risks and hazards – clean up spillages immediately, ensure there are no trailing wires, keep air flow of hair dryer moving to prevent possible scalp burn, keep the straightening irons moving through the hair to avoid damage to the hair and where applicable use a comb to protect the client’s scalp from the heat of the straightening irons when straightening the root area

Use products, tools and equipment to produce the desired outcome:

Products – - Learners will demonstrate they can use the correct products appropriate to

the service. An example of this would be using the system appropriate shampoo and serum on the client’s hair

- Learners must use chemical temporary straightening service products

- Learners will apply the chemical temporary straightening products evenly and economically. Learners may use different application methods for product consistencies e.g. bowl and brush to ensure even distribution or wide tooth comb if the hair fine

Tools – learners must ensure all tools used are fit for purpose and tools are used correctly. Examples of using correct tools may be

- Using a wide tooth comb to disentangle long hair from points to roots

- Using a comb as a barrier to protect the scalp from heat when straightening the root area

Equipment – learners must use electrical equipment correctly. As an example, the airflow should be directed from root to tip. Learners must show they can use equipment in sequence order and demonstrate control of all equipment to produce the desired finish

Use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome considering influencing factors: Learners will display an aptitude in controlling techniques, using products effectively to aid the finish result, demonstrating skills to manipulate and control of the hair with tools chosen. Learners will chemically temporarily straighten the hair and blow-dry with these techniques without disrupting that part of the hair which has already been treated or blow-dried

Techniques used in chemically temporarily straightening and blow-drying will be dependent on required finished style. Learners must

- Ensure hair is shampooed at start of service with the appropriate anti residue shampoo

- Use the correct products for hair classification/type

- Apply products in logical sequence and appropriate to the service

- Use tools that are appropriate for the finish

- Use correct brush for hair length to create finish

- Use straightening irons to set the hair into its new temporary state

- Ensure hair is dry once finished

- Be time and cost effective, e.g. a client with short fine hair would not expect the service to take 3 hours

Techniques – learners will use and adapt techniques appropriately to create a finish taking into consideration all influencing factors. Learners must

- Ensure the hair is not pulled beyond its tensile strength

- Demonstrate dexterity in management of both the tools and equipment selected for the chemical temporary straightening service

- Apply the chemical temporary straightening system products in a logical sequence

- Dry hair in logical sequence

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- Demonstrate management of equipment and control airflow from the hair dryer at all times keeping it maintained with the confines of the client and work area. The airflow should not rough up the cuticles

- Use straightening irons in a logical sequence

- Demonstrate dexterity in management of both the comb and the straighteners, using the comb as a barrier to heat on the scalp throughout the straightening service

- Straighten the hair in a logical sequence

- Demonstrate safe handling of the straightening irons, placing them on a heat protected mat or folded towel to cool after the service

Provide in-service checks with the client:

Learners will use appropriate communication and questioning techniques to check on heat settings, client comfort and general well-being throughout the service

Learners must ensure checks with the client confirm agreement of progress

Learners must demonstrate that the checks made enhance and disguise influencing factors and creative ability and attention to detail are applied, e.g. serum used at the end of the service to smooth the cuticle, avoiding the root area

Learners will ensure they have promoted the benefits of the service and advised on homecare techniques where required in order for the client to maintain their style. For example the client would be advised not to take a hot bath immediately after the service as atmospheric moisture will cause hair to return to its natural state and the straightened style affected. Where possible home techniques to prolonging the finished style could be demonstrated to the client

Maintain accurate client records: Learners must maintain accurate records by reporting and keeping client service and equipment files up to date. A full history of the service must be recorded for future reference to include any products used or tests taken. Where appropriate, maintenance of electrical equipment record card/files will verify equipment testing, faults and general repairs for specific items.

Learners must: - Complete the record card/electronic file with history of service

- Ensure all products are recorded

- Ensure amendments/adaptations to service are recorded

- Ensure notes for future recommendations are recorded

Learners must: - Conduct post-service maintenance of work area ready to meet the next client

- Ensure equipment records are up to date

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Employability skills to be demonstrated throughout the practical assessment

Communication:

Adapt and tailor approach for different clients, e.g. new and existing clients, male and female clients

Allow sufficient time for the consultation and communicate clearly and concisely to explain the concept of the treatment/service, encouraging clients to ask questions and offer reassurance

Use positive verbal communication, e.g. speaking manner and tone of voice, being supportive, respectful, sensitive to client, using open questioning to obtain information

Use positive non-verbal communication, e.g. eye contact, body language, actively listening

Promote goodwill and trust by using good communication Customer service:

Have an awareness of the principles of customer service, e.g. quality, keeping promises, managing customer expectations, customer satisfaction, speed of services and treatments, offering reassurance

Show good practice in customer service, e.g. meeting and exceeding customer needs and expectations, demonstrating a willingness to please the customer, treating the customer as an individual

Invest time in explaining the concept of the treatment/service clearly but concisely to the client, encouraging them to ask questions

Deal quickly and effectively with any complaints or issues, e.g. know who to refer to if needed

Know the importance of customer service to a business, e.g. professional image, reputation, customer retention, customer satisfaction, customer relationships

Know the impact of poor customer service, e.g. dissatisfied customers will seek out competitors, loss of reputation, loss of profit, frequent complaints

Manage client expectations and identify requirements

Commercial and environmental awareness:

Adopt eco-friendly and cost-efficient use of resources, minimising waste, e.g. all products measured correctly; efficient use and correct disposal of consumables; recycle where possible

Be aware of others and protect their ‘space’ when using products, specifically aerosols, e.g. sprays used in nail treatments or hair services

All used products will be disposed of in accordance with the salon rules and legislative guidelines

Ensure all electrical equipment switches are turned off when not in use

Identify opportunities to promote and sell additional products and treatments, e.g. during consultation or when providing aftercare advice

Talk and actively listen to gain knowledge of client preferences and routines so that the retail selling approach is personalised

Be aware of competitors for commercial success, e.g. local salon offers and promotions, new treatments/services

Know the unique selling points of treatments/services to offer the most appropriate advice

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Know business goals and sales targets to encourage focus on the vision of the business and its long term goals, e.g. seasonal promotional offers

Know how to advertise and display special offers, promotions, e.g. local newspaper stories, awards, photographs, thank you letters/cards

Promote any loyalty schemes or special offers for repeat/new clients and explain the benefits of other products and services, e.g. buy one get one free, introductory offers

Offer new/additional products and services to existing or new clients to promote self/salon experiences

Ensure the cost reflects the time taken to provide the treatment/service and commercial times allocated, e.g. tailor cost to client characteristics

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Skin cancer awareness

Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit. Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the

fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a

positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.

Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work

closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily

visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of

appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the

conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases,

possibly lifesaving information signposting.

Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:

A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.

B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show

notches or look ‘ragged’.

C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may

be seen.

D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets

bigger or changes see your doctor.

E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an

uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone

can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their

doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).

If you require any additional NHS information please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-

cancer/symptoms/skin-cancer

If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this

qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer

Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.

This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage,

health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to

identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using

appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness

of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.

This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate

knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice

and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.

For more information please refer to the Record of Assessment book:

https://qualifications.vtct.org.uk/finder/qualfinder/1Record%20of%20Assessment%20Book/A

G20529.pdf

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Assessment criteria

In order to pass this unit, learners must achieve all pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge.

Learning outcome

The learner must:

Assessment Criteria

The learner can:

LO1 Know the salon requirements for blow-drying and straightening services

P1 Explain the importance of good personal presentation

P2 State the salon procedures to set up the work area

P3 Explain how to recognise relevant hazards and risks for blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service

P4 Explain the importance of accurate record keeping

LO2 Understand the factors which influence blow-drying and straightening services

P5 Describe different hair classifications

P6 Describe how hair classifications and characteristics affect blow drying and temporary chemical straightening services

P7 Describe factors that can prevent or restrict the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service

P8 State the importance of effective questioning when consulting with the client

LO3 Know the products, tools and equipment required for blow-drying and straightening services

P9 State the products, tools and equipment used in blow-drying and temporary chemical straightening services

LO4 Be able to prepare for blow-drying and straightening services

P10 Prepare and check the area, products, tools and equipment prior to the service

P11 Prepare the client for services

P12 Explain and agree the service outcome with the client

LO5 Be able to provide blow-drying and straightening services

P13 Select products, tools and equipment to blow-dry and temporarily chemically straighten hair

P14 Use safe and hygienic working methods throughout the service

P15 Use products, tools and equipment to produce the desired outcome

P16 Use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome, considering influencing factors

P17 Provide in-service checks with the client

P18 Maintain accurate client records

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Assessment guidance

Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether assessment criteria have been achieved in the practical assessment.

P10 Prepare and check the area, products, tools and equipment prior to the service

Learners must demonstrate that they have effectively prepared for the chemical temporary straightening system service and are ready for the client. Tools, products and equipment are neatly set up on the work station and/or placed in trolley on lead side of learner (dependent on left or right hand working preference). Electrical equipment checked and confirmed to be in safe working order prior to the service. Resources such as stylebooks or mobile applications ready for client reference. Learners must select clean protective garments, towels and capes, ensuring that the client is comfortable and the chair is an appropriate height for the service.

P11 Prepare the client for services

Learners must demonstrate that they have consulted with the client using appropriate and varied questions and resources suited to the diverse needs of the client. Learners will ensure that formulated anti-residue shampoo has been used to prepare the client’s hair. Learners must ensure there are no excess products remaining in the hair to inhibit the chemical temporary straightening service, the hair is in alpha keratin state and protective garments remain dry and intact.

Learners must confirm the agreed look with the client, clearly explaining how the service will be carried out avoiding the use of technical jargon.

P12 Explain and agree the service outcome with the client

Learners must demonstrate that they have identified the factors that will influence the choice of cutting tools, equipment, products and cutting techniques. Learners must conduct visual and manual checks for contra-indication prior to the service. Learners must correctly identify the client’s hair classification and characteristics, face and head shape, identifying appropriate chemical temporary straightening products required.

P13 Select products, tools and equipment to blow-dry and temporarily chemically straighten hair

Learners should select products, tools and equipment to blow-dry and chemically temporarily straighten hair. Learners will choose the most appropriate products to create the finish. The products chosen will aid the techniques used when blow-drying and temporarily chemically straightening the hair. The tools used must be the most appropriate items to create a finish, and the learner must be able to manipulate the hair whilst using electrical equipment.

Learners will choose sectioning clips or clamps to divide hair - where appropriate, depending upon length and style - into manageable areas when handling hair to ensure it is chemically temporarily straightened and blow-dried at the end of the service. Tools must not damage or become stuck in the hair. The equipment used will create the finished look. Learners should demonstrate that they can control a constant airflow that does not cause discomfort to the client or damage to the hair. Learners must demonstrate that they can work in a safe and effective manner with straightening irons without causing discomfort to the client or damage to the hair.

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P14 Use safe and hygienic working methods throughout the service

Learners must demonstrate that they have followed safe and hygienic methods of working throughout the duration of the blow-drying and chemical temporary straightening service. For example, tools should be sterilised before use and clean towel and gown used. Any spilt product should be removed from the surface and floor. Manufacturer’s instructions should be followed throughout the service.

P15 Use products, tools and equipment to produce the desired outcome

Learners will demonstrate they can use the correct products appropriate to the service Learners must demonstrate that they have selected the correct tools and equipment to provide the required result. Products used must take into account all relevant hair classifications and characteristics.

P16 Use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome, considering influencing factors

Learners will demonstrate a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome considering influencing factors

Learners must demonstrate that they have successfully chemically temporarily straightened and blow-dried the hair according to the agreed and planned outcome. Learners must demonstrate they can use tools and equipment proficiently and safely.

P17 Provide in-service checks with the client

Learners will use appropriate communication and questioning techniques to check on heat settings, client comfort and general well-being throughout the service. Learners should have an open and friendly approach when communicating with the client.

P18 Maintain accurate client records

Learners must demonstrate that they have completed accurate record cards detailing the service and products used including any adaptations made to the service, aftercare advice given and recommendations made.

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Resources

The special resources required for this unit are access to a real or realistic working environment which supports the provision of blow-dry and straightening services. Learners must also have access to health and safety standards, manufacturers’ instructions, electrical blow-drying and finishing equipment, tools and full range of products.

Delivery guidance

Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:

Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world of work and understand commercial competency and use of products, tools and equipment

Work experience within a commercial hair salon so they can practise to hone their skills in a real environment

Using interactive information and technology, systems and hardware so they can learn about concepts and theories, research current trends, research product knowledge and produce visual aids

Links with other units

This unit is closely linked with the following units:

UCO28M Health and safety in the salon

Health and safety greatly underpins the present unit. Learners will be required to apply knowledge and understanding of health and safety for blow-drying and straightening services when providing the service in a real or realistic working environment.

UHB139M Hairdressing consultation

Alongside health and safety in the salon, hairdressing consultation underpins every other professional hair service and should be the first unit delivered. Performing a thorough consultation before all salon services is a necessity by learners and this unit supports all technical units within the qualification.

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Version Details of amendments Date

v8 Skin cancer awareness page added

15/06/17